12 Angry Jurors – Ridley High School

12 Angry Jurors by Ridley High School in Folsom, PA

November 22, 2022

Review submitted by Addy Deloffre of Upper Dublin High School

The verdict is in! From the moment the jury assembled on stage, to when the thrilling decision was finally made, Ridley High School’s production of 12 Angry Jurors was nothing short of captivating.

12 Angry Jurors combines the perspectives of twelve ordinary people as the fate of a young man on trial for murder is suddenly placed on their shoulders. Although this play is based on the 1957 movie: 12 Angry Jurors, Ridley’s interpretation is set in a much more modern setting, calling attention to biases that relate to present-day issues. While the play begins with eleven jurors agreeing on the guilty verdict, through logical argumentation and heart-pulling pleading, the scales eventually tilt.

With the twelve jurors spending the entire time onstage, this play depends on intricate ensemble interactions and character work, and fortunately, the cast accomplished this feat. By inserting clever ad-libs and making strong choices, each member of the cast contributed to the atmosphere of the courtroom. The points of tension were powerful, however, some moments occasionally lacked in energy.

Isabella Ninneman (Juror #8) managed to convincingly sway the other jurors through her genuine tone and emotion. Rivaling her was Jake Fizzano (Juror #3) whose commitment to the role provided for multiple humorous moments and a striking opposition to the rest of the group.

In a play where the ensemble remains on stage for the duration of the play, it is vital that each person commits fully to their character arcs. This was definitely seen through the performances of Alexa Naumowich (Juror #1), Violet Wiley (Juror #11), and Natalie Benditt (Juror #10), who each made their performances come alive, whether it was through creating distinct physicality choices, navigating a foreign accent, or delivering a monologue with extremely difficult connotations (respectively).

While there were no scene changes, the courtroom set–and all of its intricate details– was spectacular. The additions of sound and lighting were masterful, especially as the lights changed throughout the show to represent a sunset, showing the time slowly passing.

Order in the court! Ridley High School’s production of 12 Angry Jurors was not only amazingly executed, but also eye-opening to the issues that plague our society today.

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Review submitted by Peyton Curry of Cardinal O’Hara High School

There may have been ‘order in the court’, but certainly not in the jury room. It’s time to convene about Ridley High School’s production of 12 Angry Jurors.

Based on the 1957 Emmy Award-winning movie Twelve Angry Men by Reginald Rose, this play is about the trials and tribulations of the American judicial system, as well as the idea that you shouldn’t always follow the crowd because they aren’t always right. The film starred the famous Henry Fonda and was ranked the second best courtroom drama ever by the American film institute. It deals with important issues such as race, prejudice, class, and how people’s different experiences can impact their opinions on these things. The director makes note that although a cliche, the idea that all of these issues are still as relevant today as they were back then certainly rings true.

The energy of the cast was never low, and the chemistry between the actors was evident. Not one performer was ever out of character, even when the attention was not on them, especially with the ad-libbed and overlapping dialogue, providing a truly immersive experience. There was excellent flow within all of the dialogue which really helped the story come to life.

Leading the jury, and the stage, were characters such as Jurors #8, #4, and #3, portrayed by Isabella Ninneman, Kaylyn Piffath, and Jake Fizanno, respectively. Ninneman’s monologue-prone character proved as an excellent catalyst in terms of swaying the members of both the jury and the audience when it came to the innocence of the defendant.

And let’s not forget about the other members of our jury! Particular standout performers include Violet Wiley as Juror #11, Sara Law as Juror #2, and Natalie Benditt as Juror #10. All three ladies proved to be more than capable actresses when it came to the portrayal of their unique characters. For the most part, the accents and modified voices were consistent and very well done.

The technical aspects of the show, although minimal, were well done as well. The set and props were detailed and not at all excessive or out of place, proving useful to the characters in-scene.

Ridley’s production was clearly an open and shut case: a success! Congratulations to the cast and crew is certainly in order.

Breaking the News – Interboro High School

Breaking the News by Interboro High School in Prospect Park, PA

November 22, 2022

Review submitted by Arielle Oslon of Upper Merion Area High School

No need to talk to a shadowy figure, or jump into a trash can for this major update: Interboro High School Theater’s production of Breaking the News was a smashing success!

President Christy is always the topic of conversation at Presley High School. From her new first boyfriend Joseph to a B- on her sophomore year report card, she is the only thing the media ever talks about. Reporter Olivia has reached her breaking point. She thirsts for a real, interesting story. But, as she follows the trail of evidence, it is clear that something even more sinister is at play. From DECA, to the PTA, to Christy herself, Olivia is faced with the difficult task of discovering what is really going on.

From lunch choices to club meetings, everything about this production felt like high school. Each member of the Interboro cast believably and often hilariously embodied their respective teenaged characters.

Leading the charge, and the investigation, Maria Quintiliana as Olivia perfectly captured her character. Quintiliana effortlessly handled the complexity of her role, both as a high school student and an investigative reporter. This character duality allowed the show to be both comedic and deeply enthralling to watch.

There was no shortage of supporting characters that helped this high school mystery come to life. Cade (Connor Robovitsky) and Alyssa (Sarah Schreiber) from the anti-Christy news site, the Beacon, played influential roles in aiding Olivia throughout her investigation. The pair had hilarious chemistry (though the actual relationship was just one-sided), and brought a lot of tension in pivotal scenes, like the Beyoncé phone call. The DECA club (definitely not the mafia *wink*), including members Kayla (Keeva McNally), Mylar (Colin McGovern), and Louie (Neil Ladigoski), was a highlight of the show! The trio provided important plot development alongside zany moments of humor.

With walls adorned with lockers, posters, and paint that looks just a bit too bright when the bell rings on a Monday morning, the set by the Interboro Stage Crew, managed by Alyssa Agent and Shelby Price, truly captured the feeling of a high school. Moving desks and risers made it possible to transform the space into any place in the school, and even have the stage split into various locations at once. 

What a great production of Breaking the News put on by Interboro High School! Can they win a Pulitzer for that?

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Review submitted by Gabriela Cohen of Abington Friends School

Breaking news!! Interboro High School’s production of Breaking the News by Don Zolidis is an amusing show that you don’t want to miss!

The story follows the rivalry between two news broadcasting stations at Presley High School, The Intelligencer and The Beacon, and its central focus is on bright-eyed Olivia St. John. Olivia wants to be a real journalist, but keeps getting handed boring surface-level stories, so imagine her surprise when an anonymous shady figure tips her off about a possible scandal involving the student body president Christy! After getting this information she sets off on a journey to find out what really happened, but she ends up learning a lot more about journalism and the school than she ever thought she would.

The cast’s chemistry was evident throughout the show. As an ensemble they were downright hilarious, constantly having the audience laughing with their physical choices and willingness to look ridiculous on stage. The way they playfully interacted with each other and the comedic delivery of their dialogue added to the already humorous nature of the show, and it made the production all the more enjoyable.

Maria Quintiliana (Olivia St. John) displayed the emotional and developmental journey that Olivia goes on during the show. Quintiliana’s energy peaked right before intermission and had us all wanting to know what would happen next. Throughout the production she got increasingly more comfortable on stage and gave the character of Olivia an appropriate sense of determination and also a relatable awkwardness that made us root for her as she tried to dig deeper into the scandal.

The rest of the ensemble helped bring this show to life. An extra notable performance was that of Kiera McCarron (Marion). McCarron had a strong sense of how to balance humor and intensity. The delivery of her lines was clear and intentional, and the way she demonstrated her sense of timing for comedic one-liners versus important moments was elegant. Some other notable performances that strengthened the production as a whole were that of Alexander Bozzi (Todd Brizniac), Sarah Schreiber (Alyssa Montgomery), and Rhyan Lehman (Tia). All three of these actors kept up their energy throughout the show.

The props and costumes for this show were spot on, adding a touch of realism and believability to the production. The mics had some solid moments and the lighting attempted to add a sense of intensity to the scenes that called for it. Cast members without mics were a little bit more difficult to hear, and the pauses in between scenes could have been shortened just a little bit, but overall, the production’s technical aspects were solid.

Interboro High School’s production of Breaking the News was a comedic feel-good show that with its humorous cast was able to shine a light on the realities of high school journalism and the consequences of going after a story solely for the sake of wanting the scoop. Nice job Interboro!! (Wink).

A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Harriton High School

A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Harriton High School in Rosemont, PA

November 22, 2022

Review submitted by Reid Lawler of Episcopal Academy

“Lord, what fools these mortals be!”  Harriton High School’s incredible production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream will keep you entertained and laughing right to the very end with its detailed set, hilarious actors, and brilliant music.

From the mind of William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night’s Dream tells the tale of two fairies’ rivalry and their effects involving drama between two sets of lovers and the performance between a group of actors. The various subplots have their own respectable twists and turns which interact with each other throughout the play.

The two sets of lovers, Demetrius (Sam Bailey) and Helena (Elizabeth Clancy), and Lysander (Cameron Parker) and Hermia (Ava Marcus), gathered many laughs from the audience as their dynamic was absolutely hilarious. Bailey and Parker got many laughs from the audience with their mannerisms and facial expressions that truly brought the characters to life. Marcus and Clancy brought with them dramatic delivery of lines which really helped the audience connect with each of their characters’ plights.

The entire cast did an outstanding job bringing the production to life! The Mechanicals really stuck out with their presence during their play. Nick Bottom (Jack McCullough) and Petra Quince (Ally Fenton) especially had the audience chuckling whenever they were on stage – McCullough with his comedic timing and Fenton with her humorous and animated movements!  The fairies also did an exceptionally nice job with their choreographed song and dance!

The set, orchestra, costumes, and sound cues were absolutely fabulous. The intricate details with the branches on the ceiling were a sight to take in. The trees and rock on the stage were also superbly detailed as well. The best part had to be the turf paving the way to the stage and the seats. Those elements along with the colorful lighting combined to create a wonderful enchanted forest atmosphere. The orchestra also set the scene of a magical forest with its many different arrays of instruments. The costumes also added to this illusion with collared shirts, tunics, and beautiful dresses. The sound cues were also fantastic. Particularly, the drops played when the love potion was placed into someone’s eyes which were always perfectly timed.

Harriton High School’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream was a delightful, impressive, and stunning show that kept the audience hooked from the very beginning!

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Review submitted by Arielle Oslon of Upper Merion Area High School

No magical flower is needed to fall in love with Harriton Theater Company’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Four lovers. Three subplots. Two royal fairies. One eccentric donkey man and his gaggle of actors. What is there to explain? Written by the glorious Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night’s Dream has everything to be expected from a Shakespearean production: chaos, love, and a few questionable innuendos. It is a horrible case of Cupid gone wrong, tied with a very striking performance from Athen’s worst acting troupe to add in just a bit more madness.

Performed inside an intimate black box theater, the Harriton Cast mastered how to play to their surroundings, filling the room with beautiful facials and nuanced movements.

During her time in the forest, Helena, played by Elizabeth Clancy, truly embodied the insecure maiden at her wit’s end. Instead of being inhibited by wordy monologues, Clancy embraced it, finding well timed beats and adapting a colorful way of speaking to make the seemingly foreign language understandable. Playing the fierce and clever Lysander, Cameron Parker did a wonderful job transitioning throughout the show, from doting, to hexed, back to doting again.

Providing hilarious breaks in tension, was the ragtag group of Mechanicals. Any time the troupe donned the stage, laughter was sure to follow. Playing the riotous Nick Bottom, Jack McCullough was masterful in his portrayal, whether it was beneath a donkey head or engulfed in faux armor. The rest of the company, consisting of Petra Quince (Ally Fenton), Francis Flute (Hayden Picker), Tom Snout (Maja Mozdzer), Snug (Henry Yearly) and Robin Starveling (Lucas Nelson), was on par with McCullough’s energy. Their off-the-wall production of Pyramus and Thisbe was a major highlight of the show.

The sets, led by Dashiel Albright and Emma Crawford, were essential in bringing the story to life. A massive tree, stemming from the back of the room, had branches shooting off in all directions, even intertwined with the stage light fixtures. This, combined with floor to ceiling greenery made it impossible to distinguish fantasy from reality in the best way. Costumes and makeup were another highlight of the production, with each character having custom designs catered just to them. The contrast between the fairies, mechanicals, and Athenians, added even more to each role.

“Oh Spite, Oh Hell!” It is a shame that there are no more chances to catch Harriton Theater Company’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Legally Blonde – Agnes Irwin School

Legally Blonde by the Agnes Irwin School in Bryn Mawr, PA

November 22, 2022

Review submitted by Olivia Lee of Harriton High School

There! Right there! Look at the pink high heeled shoes and the well-choreographed moves of the Agnes Irwin School’s production of Legally Blonde!

The musical Legally Blonde written by Heather Hach, Laurence O’Keefe, and Nell Benjamin, is based off of both the novel by Amanda Brown and the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture, both by the same name. It centers around Elle Woods, a young woman who joins Harvard School of Law to win back the heart of her ex-boyfriend, defying the stereotypes her blonde hair and feminine flair evoke.

Agnes Irwin’s production effectively captured the adventurous, spunky mood of the play with their vibrant pinks, blues, and yellows applied throughout the show, whether it was the rose-tinted walls of Elle’s bedroom or the bubblegum color of her blazer. Digitally projected backgrounds whirled together in a snap, streamlining the scene changes, and sets were subtle, friendly and inviting.

Leila Rodriguez did a stellar job as Elle, performing with heartening liveliness and a charisma that was practically palpable. She movingly portrayed the frustration and pain that stereotypes cause, and her vocals were euphonious and clear throughout the entire production. Jeremiah Ortiz as Emmet Forrest had heartwarming chemistry with his costar, making the scenes where he comforts and confesses to her all the more meaningful.

The stage at Agnes Irwin was brought to life by its spritely ensemble. Julia Halpern stood out as Serena, one of Elle’s sorority sisters, with her constant smile and sharp dancing, not to mention her strong vocals during “Bend and Snap.” Charlie Cutler aroused raucous laughter in his role as the UPS guy Kyle, and his performance as Nikos in “There! Right there!” left the audience howling and cheering in earnest.

Agnes Irwin’s tech teams are not to be forgotten. The lighting influenced the mood of the play, creating a constricting atmosphere during the emotionally heavy scenes and then lifting the burden during the breezy ones. Pre-recorded music was pieced together with the sound team emulating the dynamics of a live orchestra. Any unexpected technology or script blips were handled swiftly and professionally by both cast and crew.

The Agnes Irwin School did not disappoint with their energetic production of Legally Blonde. It was made obvious that the cast, crew, and everyone supporting them and the show put lots of effort into producing it–plus, had serious fun in the process! 

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Review submitted by Aidan Bramley of Bordentown Regional High School

Agnes Irwin High School’s production of Legally Blonde: The Musical will have viewers saying “Omigod” because this show is exactly “What You Want”.

Legally Blonde: The Musical follows effervescent Elle Woods, who, after being dumped because she wasn’t “serious” enough by the love of her life, decides she must prove herself by going to Harvard Law School. With the help of a bubbly hairdresser, a lovable law student, and a Greek Chorus, Elle navigates her way through the complexities of both life and love and learns the importance of self-empowerment and girl power. This lighthearted show challenges the stereotypes of a typical sorority girl in a lighthearted and “Positive” way!

While taking on the challenge this show poses physically and technically is not a simple task, Agnes Irwin’s production consistently met and exceeded expectations. From the vibrant energy of the cast to the skillful usage of set pieces, viewers were not to be let down.

Leila Rodriguez (Elle Woods) drove this show along, delivering both an impactful and emotional performance while rarely leaving the stage. Rodriguez stunned audiences with her impressive range, both vocally and emotionally, and accentuated the personality of Elle by consistently staying in character throughout challenging choreography and rapid costume changes. Jeremiah Ortiz (Emmett Forrest) brought this lovable character to life through his agglomeration of some comic yet touching acting choices. Additionally, Ortiz’s timing with the difficult vocal tracks was impeccable, rarely missing a beat.

Julia Halpern (Serena) gave a standout performance and never failed to remain in character, even when not the focal point in a scene. She often led the Delta Nu/Greek Chorus ensemble with an immense amount of energy, perfect for the cheerleader she portrayed. Annalee Stuardi-Drumm’s (Vivienne Kensington) strong acting choices paved her a path to embody the role of Vivienne with ease. She was able to effortlessly utilize the energy from other characters to distinguish her own role in a very impressive way. Even with the difficult choreography and vocals of this show, the ensemble shone bright, and their comedic reactions greatly strengthened each number.

The simplistic nature of the sets by no means fell short, and the clever usage of set pieces, specifically the painted doors, provided a spectacle while also not taking focus from the plot. Chloe Walsh masterfully managed the stage, and set changes were often perfectly timed and very well concealed. While some of the spotlight usage and minor sound complications may have distracted the audience at times, the upbeat energy of the cast allowed the show to flow smoothly.

If you’re looking for an exceptional cast and crew of Legally Blonde: The Musical, look “There! Right! There!” to Agnes Irwin High School!

Mamma Mia! – Jenkintown MS/HS

Mamma Mia! by Jenkintown Middle School / High School in Jenkintown, PA

November 16, 2022

Review submitted by Shreya Vaidhyanathan of Conestoga High School

November 10th, what a night! Jenkintown High School presented their rendition of Mamma Mia! this week, transporting their audience to a little island in Greece with the help of a dedicated cast and crew.

A 1999 jukebox musical featuring multiple hit songs from Swedish band ABBA, Mamma Mia! tells the story of Sophie Sheridan and her search for her father. Upon reading her mother’s old diary, the young bride-to-be invites three men from her mother’s past to her wedding in hopes of having her true father give her away on her wedding day.

Celia Defazio (Donna) was phenomenal in her role, her vocals especially shining through in “The Winner Takes It All” and “SOS”. Defazio’s stage presence was exceptional and helped create genuine chemistry onstage, most notably with her daughter Charlotte Steinhauer (Sophie) and past lover Nick Sobolewski (Sam).

Equally impressive were the performances of Ambar Guzman (Tanya) and Karolyn Mitchell (Rosie), both of whom brought exceptional energy to their roles. Guzman’s comedic delivery was exemplary, garnering cheers and laughs throughout the production. Possible fathers Lucas Pacuraru (Bill) and Brandon Din (Harry) were also hilarious, using props like guitars and backpacks to expand their characters.

The high-spirited cast of Jenkintown’s Mamma Mia! seemed to enjoy performing just as much as the audience enjoyed the show. Simple yet effective choreography contributed to a cheerful, lively mood on the island and made for countless humorous scenes between cast members.

Rounding off the cast’s talents was a variety of technical elements, ranging from props to costumes. Lighting arrangements went from a disco ball during the Dynamos’ performance to highlighting a lead against the ensemble, truly capturing the mood of the scene with color or spotlight cues.

Donna and the Dynamos’ iconic finale costumes did not disappoint in the slightest, the neon colors and flared fit proving perfect for their final number. Additionally, blue-and-white painted background aligned with the Grecian setting and seamlessly connected to the plot, with one door for each possible father.

When ‘All is Said and Done’, Jenkintown High School’s production of Mamma Mia! is absolutely worth taking a chance on. The audience’s roaring applause by the end made it clear that this performance is impossible to pass up; “Thank You For The Music,” cast and crew of Jenkintown!

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Review submitted by Georgia Curtin of Interboro High School.

Keep an eye on your watch because time will just slip through your fingers while watching Jenkintown MS/HS’s rendition of the internationally applauded musical: Mamma Mia!

In 1999, British playwright Catherine Johnson partnered with Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus to create the magnificent musical experience that is Mamma Mia!. On the island, it has only ever been Sophie (Charlotte Steinhauer) and her mother Donna (Celia Defazio), a mother-daughter duo that never needed a man. Life was good, but something was always missing for Sophie. After finding her mother’s diaries from the good old days, she is faced with a dramatic decision. Will Sophie finally meet her father after all this time? You’ll have to come see Jenkintown MS/HS’s production of Mamma Mia! to find out!

Celia Defazio, who played Donna, captivated the audience with her electrifying energy. In each scene she was in, it was impossible to look away from her as she commanded the stage with her passionate facial expressions and powerful vocals. There was not a dry eye in the audience as Defazio enchanted viewers in her performance of “The Winner Takes It All”.

Defazio was not the only impressive performer in this bunch. Other notable talented performers include Lucas Pacuraru (Bill), Laila Hatcher (Pepper), and Maya Williams (Eddie) who added nothing but a joyful air to the show. With their lively energies and never faltering carefree personas, laughing was a guarantee.

Behind every good show is a collection of hard-working individuals who are good at what they do. From their impressive stage crew, run by Estelle Feaster, to the crew behind their lighting, Jenkintown has just that. Their very own costume design team, the “Garment Gals”, did a fantastic job of curating a vibrant yet realistic wardrobe, true to typical Greek clothing standards with a little bit of added flare. However, this show was not without its faults. Throughout some of the songs, there was a volume/microphone issue. Some voices tended to overpower others and made it hard to hear the important vocals. Given this information, it is important to note that the tech crew received their new soundboard the week before opening night and their performance was nearly flawless. They faced these challenges and still provided an eye-catching and entertaining viewing experience.

Overall, it was clear that a lot of love, sweat, and tears went into this show. Jenkintown’s Theater Arts program should be proud of the amazing show that they presented.

Mamma Mia! – Friends Select School

Mamma Mia! by Friends Select School in Philadelphia, PA

November 16, 2022

Review submitted by Maggie Stine of Academy of the New Church

Friends Select School can dance, they can jive, and they certainly had the time of their lives in their production of Mamma Mia!.

Mamma Mia!, a jukebox musical by Catherine Johnson and with music by ABBA, follows a single mother, Donna and her daughter Sophie in her taverna on a small island in Greece. After reading her mother’s old diary, Sophie, while preparing for her wedding, attempts to discover the identity of her father. Originally produced on the West End in 1999, Mamma Mia! took the theater world by storm, now one of the most produced shows in America. 

Annalise DiCicco and Atia Osborne gave lovely performances as the iconic mother-daughter duo –  the tenacious Donna and sweet Sophie. DiCicco, playing Donna, proved themself to be a dynamic performer, excelling in each of their scenes. Their light and gentle soprano and powerful belt were highlighted beautifully in numbers such as “Slipping Through My Fingers” and “The Winner Takes it All.” Osborne, playing Sophie, had a bright and warm presence, not to mention her outstanding chemistry with her cast mates. Her powerful acting and clear voice leant themselves nicely to the beloved character. DiCicco and Osborne played off each other wonderfully, executing a believable and touching mother-daughter relationship onstage. 

An enthusiastic band of supporting performers elevated this production. Patrick Ryan, playing Sophie’s fiancé Sky, infused each of his scenes with pep and charisma. Lena Kisner, playing Tanya, and Sarah Gorenstein, playing Rosie, joined DiCicco in forming the passionate and hilarious Dynamos. The collective stage presence of the principal roles enlivened this show. Alongside the lovely performances by the leads and supporting actors, the ensemble’s energy was positively unmatched. Their alacrity in musical numbers, particularly in “Lay All Your Love on Me” and “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme” absolutely filled the stage.

With a talented cast and exceptional lighting, this production was very enjoyable. The cast and crew did a great job of bringing the necessary spirit to this exhausting-to-perform show. 

The technicians of Friends Select School seized the opportunity to showcase their lighting prowess. May Colgan, running lights, illuminated the otherwise simple sets with clever lighting choices and quick cues. The disco-esque lighting schemes brought this production to life. Another notable backstage presence was the swift stage crew which allowed this production to move at a quick pace.

The students of Friends Select shone both onstage and off. Their vitality and effervescence made this production a joy to watch. Friends Select School, “Thank You For The Music!”

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Review submitted by Meg Matsukawa of Academy of the New Church

Dance, jive, and have the time of your life at Friends Select School’s dazzling production of Mamma Mia!

Written by Catherine Johnson and based on the songs of ABBA, Mamma Mia! premiered in 1999 and became the longest-running jukebox musical on both the West End and Broadway. Mamma Mia! follows independent hotelier Donna and her daughter Sophie, who are preparing for Sophie’s wedding on their small Greek island. Sophie, wishing to have her father walk her down the aisle, invites three men from Donna’s past to her wedding in order to find him, stirring up heartbreak and hilarity. 

With strong vocals, versatile acting, and captivating chemistry, Friends Select School’s production of Mamma Mia! was carried by the lead vocalists. From heart-wrenching ballads to energetic pop hits, a compelling depth was brought to each of the classic songs as the unconventional wedding woes came to life.

Tackling the role of Donna the Dynamo is no easy feat, but with a powerhouse voice and incredible characterization, Annalise DiCicco was up for the challenge. From their lilting emotion in “Slipping Through My Fingers” to their spellbinding vocal versatility in “The Winner Takes it All,” DiCicco enthralled the audience. Atia Osborne brilliantly navigated the role of Sophie, bringing the youthful dreamer to life. In addition to her clear, energetic vocals, and enchanting acting choices, Osborne’s graceful dancing brought a joyous vibrancy to the production.

Olukayode Ekundare, Monny Caldwell, and Cal Hawkins, who played Sam, Bill, and Harry, added hilarious emotional depth as the trio of fathers. Their brilliant chemistry captured the nostalgia of lost summers and forgotten dreams, each illustrating a unique take on potential fatherhood. With unparalleled energy, Sarah Gorenstein and Lena Kinser portrayed Rosie and Tanya, Donna’s best friends. The fiercely independent women brought impeccable comedy to the production – Gorenstein and Kinser kept the audience’s enthusiasm high.

Tying the show together was May Colgan’s dazzling light design, which effortlessly transitioned the atmosphere from discos to daydreams. Bridging the scenes was the stage crew, whose efficiency appeared almost choreographed. Despite some sound-level issues, Max Andrews handled twelve concurrent mics with commendable ease, allowing the show to run smoothly.

So we say “thank you for the music” to Friends Select School for their dynamic production of “Mamma Mia!”, where disco and dreams met in a stunning reminder of family strength.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow – Upper Dublin High School

The Legend of Sleep Hollow by Upper Dublin High School in Fort Washington, PA

November 16, 2022

Review submitted by Aidan Bramley of Bordentown Regional High School.

Legend has it that Upper Dublin High School’s mystifying production of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow was anything but hollow.

Based on the original story by Washington Irving, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, follows Ichabod Crane’s arrival to Sleepy Hollow as a schoolteacher. Ichabod, a clear outcast, tries to woo Katrina Van Tassel and in doing so, receives an invitation to a party at the Von Tassel’s house. Succeeding the party, the ensemble gathers to tell tales of the Revolutionary War. One story, told by Abraham Van Brunt (Brom Bones), recalls the story of the Headless Horseman. This chilling story leaves Ichabod in a troubling state of mind and what was once just a story becomes anything but.

While taking on the special effects of this show could be no easy feat, Upper Dublin proved successful in building a chilling and unsettling environment to interpret the legend.

Declan McMonagle (Ichabod Crane) brought this legend to life through his intricate diction and clear acting technique. While enduring a great number of lengthy monologues with both strong acting technique and a wealth of body language, McMonagle both impressed the audience and left them in awe. Petra Kolar (Katrina Van Tassel) built a powerful and memorable character. Kolar proved to have a strong relationship with much of the ensemble, and even when not the focal point in a scene, she never broke character and remained highly engaged in the show.

While the leads worked to bring the show to life, the ensemble played a critical role in the entirety of the show. Che Young (Baltus Van Tassel) did an extremely good job and  provided much-needed comic relief in certain areas of the show, helping push the tale along in slower times. Finn Anderson (Brom Bones) stayed consistent in his acting choices by never failing to stay in character. Anderson used plenty of facial expressions to exemplify his character even when not speaking. While not a musical, the incorporation of music into this show was done cleanly and incredibly. Emmeline Coplan (Musician) and Steph Wallack (Vocalist) left audiences in shock after stunning vocal and musical performances. 

While the cast brought this tale to the stage, the tech was nothing short of its own legend. With its minimalistic sets, focus was placed on different technical aspects of the show, including the intricate lighting, performed by Noa Stein and Paige Teufel, and beautifully designed props, done by Hayden Ryan and Molly Kivlehan. The special effects were done with great attention to detail and staging and added tremendously to the eeriness of the show.

Overall, the great energy from the cast and brilliance of the tech made this show anything but “sleepy”.

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Review submitted by Amelie dela Cruz of Bordentown Regional High School

Riddled with haunts and taunts, Upper Dublin High School’s production of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is a delightful take on a classic Halloween story!

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by John Heimbuch and Jon Ferguson is an adaptation of a gothic horror story originally written by Washington Irving. In the early 19th century, schoolteacher Ichabod Crane (Declan McMonagle) finds himself far from comfort in the small village of Sleepy Hollow. This town holds many legends, specifically that of the headless horseman. As he fights for Katrina Van Tassel’s (Petra Kolar) hand in marriage, his suspicions around the legend grow stronger, and he meets the legend face to face.

Declan McMonagle handled his lines and his role well. Since the play was written with the vocabulary of the 1800s, it was more difficult to interpret the lines and diction, but McMonagle acted with enough expression to make up for the colorful vocabulary. Petra Kolar played Katrina with the right amount of elegance that exemplified the character that many men were fighting over. Her singing was also impressive near the end of the show, which displayed her versatility as an actress.

Notable performances included that of Emmeline Coplan as the Musician, who performed an original piece on the violin while dancing with the rest of the ensemble. Brom Bones (Finn Anderson) really took on the 19th century rule-breaker role when it came to his body language and way of speaking. Parson Van Houten (Addy Deloffre) had great projection and made her monologues worth listening to, and she made the interesting language of the story easy to understand.

The costumes and hair were very accurate to the 19th century; not only were they beautiful, they were clearly put together with a lot of effort and thought. The impressively coordinated looks of the cast created an immersive experience that added to the story and production. The special effects of the strobe lights also created an immersive experience that added to the unsettling nature of the headless horseman scenes, although it did make those scenes harder to follow. The headless horseman, which was rigged from the ceiling and dropped down from the ceiling, was a surprise that helped to advance the story and demonstrate the technical ability of the crew.

The cast clearly had synergy, and this especially helped them in scenes where the ensemble would act as schoolchildren or partygoers. It was not hard to see that this cast enjoyed working together, this energy made this production more enjoyable to watch overall.

Upper Dublin High School’s performance of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow was an interesting take on a show that was evidently challenging for actors and crew alike.

The 39 Steps – Episcopal Academy

The 39 Steps by Episcopal Academy in Newtown Square, PA

November 2, 2022

Review submitted by Mae Londergan of Harriton High School

Wanted: a crisp, hilarious show full of humor, heart, an overflowing of good manners, and very attractive pencil mustaches… what’s this? The criminal has been apprehended! Episcopal Academy’s production of The 39 Steps has it all: an outstanding ensemble cast, fantastic tech, and an overall attention to detail that had the audience laughing throughout the show.

The 39 Steps follows Richard Hannay, an Englishman who gets dragged into an international espionage plot by a German woman claiming to be a spy. When she is murdered, he goes on the run from the police, dodging them at every turn while trying to stop a foreign spy from endangering the country with “the 39 Steps.” What was once a serious spy drama is now a laugh-out-loud comedy, featuring deadly misunderstandings and a large cast of hilarious characters.

Kevin Landaiche’s performance as Richard Hannay brought an English sensibility to the production, with an accent that enhanced the role and comedic timing that lit up every scene he was in. His physical comedy was also excellent, especially in the Edinburgh Train scene. Sarah Memmo’s performance as Pamela Edwards was a joy to watch, with spunk and humor to spare.

The ensemble cast was marvelous, each of the actors playing up to four roles with both skill and enthusiasm. Lindsay Knight’s performance as Annabella Schmidt perfectly portrayed a classic 1930s film spy, with drama and humor that drew the audience into the story (as well as a very impressive feat of athleticism).  Also, her versatility as an actor truly shone through as Mrs. McGarrigle, nosy and purposely unintelligible at times. Will Esterhai as both Mrs. Jordan and Mr. McGarrigle brought nearly cacophonous laughter to the audience, particularly in his second dance performance as Mr. McGarrigle.

The cast was also involved in the scene changes, helping the Deck Crew to move the set pieces to create the newest setting. Aaron Zhu’s excellent organization of these, at times complex, scene changes was evident: they were smooth and short (and often quite funny by themselves), never pulling the audience out of the story.  The sets themselves were versatile and interactive, most pieces being used in multiple settings.

The lighting and sound were incredible, adding depth and interest to the overall production. The party scene in Alt Na Shellach and the Edinburgh Train scene showcased these tech departments’ skills and efforts particularly well, with seamless transitions timed with the opening and closing of a door, and lighting and sound effects that truly made it feel as though the characters were on top of a moving train.

The entire production was fantastic, with humor, excellent tech, and a wonderful ensemble cast that brought the story to life. Quite right, sir!

__________

Review submitted by Sam Bailey of Harriton High School

Have you ever heard of The 39 Steps?  Contrary to an assumption made by the very handsome, piercingly blue-eyed Richard Hannay, it is not a pub; rather, it is a farcical play being put on by Episcopal Academy’s Domino Club!

The 39 Steps, a parody of Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 film of the same name–which, in itself, was an adaptation of John Buchan’s 1915 novel–premiered in 2005 with a cast of only four actors, despite there being forty-six characters found in Episcopal’s production. The play follows the aforementioned Richard Hannay, who has been framed for the murder of the mysterious Annabella Schmidt, as he flees the law across Europe and hijinks ensue.

With a well-paced 90-minute run-time, Episcopal’s production did not waste a moment. Each joke was deliberate, and each actor strived to create a great production holistically.

Kevin Landaiche led the ensemble with delightful physicality and the dynamic quips of a screwball star–the likes of Cary Grant. As circumstances worsened for Richard, Landaiche’s charm kept the audience on his side. That charm eventually won over his reluctant leading lady, too: Sarah Memmo as Pamela was perfectly prim and properly engaged in an enjoyable back-and-forth with Landaiche throughout the second act; their chemistry was believable and nuanced.

The entire company performed as a hilarious hive-mind, each member seeming to hold the same goal: to create a production so wonderfully ridiculous (and ridiculously wonderful) that the audience could not help but grin when leaving the theater. That being said, there is much that can be said about each individual performer–most of whom were playing multiple characters. Every proper story needs a villain, and Jack Cellucci’s maniacal Professor Jordan offered just that. Cellucci’s performance had the audience chortling in their seats one moment and cringing with unease the next. Another scene-stealer was Lindsay Knight in two contrasting roles; her Annabella was intriguing, a play on the femme-fatale archetype, and her Mrs. McGarrigle made the audience roar with each not-so-subtle euphemism. Will Esterhai and Reid Lawler, too, were hilarious in their many roles and accents. Esterhai, dancing a joyous jig while clad in the burly costumes of a middle-aged Scottish innkeeper, received one of the performance’s largest laughs.

The US Tech Crew did an impressive job with the production’s many set pieces, especially the creation of a theater within Episcopal’s own black-box. Stage Manager Aaron Zhu and the Deck Crew were efficient in their transitions between scenes, keeping the pace quick play up.

With performers so gifted, it is no wonder why the Domino Club would choose to produce a piece that allows each member a moment to show off their skill. The 39 Steps was a delightful showcase for Episcopal Academy’s company.

17th Season of the Cappies Begins

Cappies 2022-2023 is back and ready to celebrate high school theatre!

The Cappies first organizational meeting of the year was held on Sunday October 16th at Archmere Academy.  Over 200 student critics, mentors, and directors were in attendance.

The Cappies program has twenty-three high schools involved this year from New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware.  The first Cappies’ show is on the weekend of October 29th and the last show will be in April.  Each show will be attended by Cappies critics from various teams, an average of thirty critics per show.  The critics each write a review of the show and the top two reviews as chosen by the Cappies mentors will be published on this blog.

The Cappies year ends with the Seventeenth Annual Cappies Gala on Sunday May 14th where the Cappies trophies will be given out for over twenty categories rewarding excellence both on stage and behind the scenes.

The Cappies steering committee is looking forward to another year of celebrating high school theatre in the Greater Philadelphia Area!

Go to the Greater Philadelphia Cappies website at http://www.cappies.com/gpc or contact admingpc@cappies.com with questions or requests for more information.